William J. Bauer, age 90 of Durand, WI passed away in Phoenix, Arizona on Saturday, February 10, 2018, after a brief illness. Preceded in death by parents John J. Bauer and Bertha (Poeschel) Bauer, and sisters Emma Bauer, Ann Weissinger, Mary Schaefer, and Barbara Dekan.

He is survived by Helen, his wife of 65 years, children David (Robin) Bauer, Steve (Tina) Bauer, Jeff (Karen) Bauer, Mary (Dave) Brion, and Donna (Mark) Owen; 12 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren; siblings Hubert Bauer, Lucyann Sabelko, and Veronica Nielen.

Bill served in the Korean War. After returning home, he met and married his sweetheart, and he and Helen operated a farm in the Lima area. Bill also worked at the Coast to Coast hardware store in Durand for many years. He appreciated the green grass of Wisconsin, and the warmth of the Arizona sun in the winter. He enjoyed riding his John Deere Gator around the farm with his bride. Bill had a great sense of humor who loved, and was loved by all. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Memorial Services will be 10:00 AM Saturday, March 3, 2018 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church-Lima in Durand. Rev. Paul Bosco will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of services at the church on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice in Bill's name.

Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Durand, is serving the family.

Condolences

1. Scott Brunner March 1, 2018, at 4:30pm

   I am saddened by Bill's passing. I'll always remember his warm smile and happiness no matter where we met. You have my most sincere condelences.

   Scott Brunner

2. Larry & Bonnie Reichert March 1, 2018, at 11:01am

   Bill and Helen drove out to Washington to check out Donna and Mark's new property. That was about a decade ago, but we'll never forget the vigor Bill had for life and how they "slept in their van" in the woods. We couldn't believe it. What an inspiration for us - and what better can you do for others than inspire? We've never forgotten. Peace to you all.

3. Walter & Sue Nelson February 27, 2018, at 8:37am

   Dear Dave & Family,
   We are so very sorry to hear of your great loss. Wishing you all eventual peace through the gift of time.
   With Love & Light,
   Walter & Sue

4. Nancy Bauer February 23, 2018, at 12:48pm

   It was always a pleasure to see Bill and Helen riding around on the gator. He was always smiling. Our sympathy to all who loved him. Gary and Nancy Bauer

5. Darlene February 23, 2018, at 11:07am

   My Deepest Sympathy Helen and Family, Bill was the gentlest man and always would greet you with a smile! Rest in Peace Bill!

6. Pat Rosenberg February 23, 2018, at 10:41am

   I remember Bill with a smile on his face, and he could always make everyone else smile, too. I send my sympathy and prayers to Helen and the entire family. May God bless you with love and peace.

7. Jack & Carole Komro February 22, 2018, at 8:50am

   Helen & Family, You have our deepest sympathy on Bill;s death, j Jack & Carole

8. Dick & Jan Bates February 21, 2018, at 5:47pm

   Bill was such a great guy. I always enjoyed visiting with him. I will miss his smile and kind words. We will remember him and his family in our prayers.

   Dick & Jan Bates

9. Kris Polzer February 21, 2018, at 12:57pm

   Sending our sympathy on your loss. Bill was always such a wonderful gentleman whenever you saw him.
   He will be missed by many.

   Sincerely,
   Dave & Kris Polzer

10. Rick Small February 19, 2018, at 12:49pm

    Dave,
    I am very sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing.
    It appears you got not only your looks, but also your humor and character from your dad.
    Losing a parent does leave a big void in our lives, but the memories carry on forever.

    Rick Small

11. John and Judy Parr February 15, 2018, at 9:02am

    Sympathy our thoughts will be with you all.

12. Bobby Brunner February 14, 2018, at 8:05pm

    Bill J. Bauer was a GREAT man who inspired all he came in contact with. He was so STRONG in his beliefs and his ability to COMMUNICATE his convictions made me marvel at a one-in-a-lifetime man whom served his fellow humans so well. I will truly miss Bill and wish Helen and her GREAT family sympathy, but at the same time I know Bill J. Bauer is in Heaven where he belongs!!l

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